WHY, WHEN and HOW To Write a Media Release By Elaine Regus ERPR www.erpr.biz

WHY Promote yourself and/or your business Attract new customers, clients, students Help people find solutions Build relationships Plant a seed

WHEN New business New products, services, employees, classes Changes to existing business: location, new website Awards and recognition Timely reminder of existing products/services Hosting an event Whenever

6 W’S AND 2 H’s PLUS 1 Who? You or your business What? The news When? Date, day, time Where? Complete address Why? Reason you did what you did How? Nuts and bolts of process How much? Cost Why should I care?

HOW Header: Company information including release date Title: Topic of release/think headline First paragraph: Key facts (who, what, why) Middle graphs: String together remaining pertinent facts in paragraph form Footer: For more information…

DOs Do use Letterhead if available Do use simple 12-point font on white paper Do keep it short: one page single- or double- spaced Do include photos, especially action photos

DON’Ts Don’t rely on Spell-check. It is not your friend. Consider there/their/they’re Don’t play hard to get. Include all contact information including: name, address, office phone, cell phone, and email address Don’t be salesy be newsy

MEDIA OUTLETS Your own website, newsletter or blog Facebook, LinkedIn Free online press release outlets Local newspapers Trade publications Magazines Association newsletters

PICK YOUR TARGET Think small Review the publication Check submission guidelines Make contact

NOW WHAT? Wait Watch the publication Google Alerts Keep you fingers crossed Should I call the editor? If the editor or a reporter calls you for more information: JACKPOT!